The Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) seminar for planners took place on June 24, 2023, via Zoom.
Organized by the UP National Center for Transportation Studies (UP NCTS) in collaboration with the
Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners – National Capital Region Chapter (PIEP-NCR Chapter), the
seminar aimed to provide planners with a comprehensive understanding of traffic impact assessment,
encompassing key principles, concepts, and methods.
The event commenced with a warm welcome from EnP. Jayson Edward B. San Juan, the esteemed
President of PIEP-NCR Chapter. This was followed by a program orientation delivered by Dr. Jun T.
Castro, the current Director of UP NCTS. Efficiently moderating the program were Dr. Edgar M. Chavez,
Continuing Professional Development Chair of PIEP-NCR Chapter; Engr. Sheila Flor D. Javier, Head of the
Training Group of UP NCTS; and Mr. Jerome N. Ballarta, University Extension Specialist of UP NCTS. EnP.
Maria Ana M. Pulido, National President of PIEP, delivered the closing remarks which resonated
profoundly with the attendees.
The 8-hour seminar drew over 200 participants nationwide, including architects, civil engineers, and
environmental planners. The seminar consisted of four informative modules designed to equip
participants with essential knowledge and skills on TIA. Modules 1 and 2, effortlessly handled by Dr. Ma.
Sheilah G. Napalang, Director for Research of the UP School of Urban and Regional Planning, delved into
the Fundamentals of TIA providing a solid grounding of its principles, and provided Familiarization with
TIA Report Components, respectively.
Engr. Aileen U. Mappala, Director of the UP Diliman Transportation Management Office, easily handled
Module 3 on Transportation and Traffic Surveys for TIA. Module 4 on Traffic Modeling including Traffic
Simulation, was proficiently delivered by Dr. John Justine S. Villar, Chairperson of the Computer
Engineering Department and expert from the Intelligent Transportation System Laboratory of UP NCTS.
Dr. Villar's presentation imparted participants with invaluable insights into advanced techniques,
including the application of the Center’s developed software LocalSim and T4Cast as traffic modeling
and simulation tools.
An important aspect of the seminar was its accreditation for Continuing Professional Development
(CPD). Attendees earned 6 CPD points, furthering their professional growth, and solidifying the
significance of their participation in the event.
The Traffic Impact Assessment seminar proved to be a highly engaging and enriching experience,
fostering the development of planners' expertise in the field. The collaboration between UP NCTS and
PIEP-NCR Chapter successfully facilitated knowledge exchange and professional growth among
participants, ultimately enhancing their planning capabilities. This seminar stood as a testament to the
commitment of these organizations in promoting excellence in the planning community.